The Ultimate Guide to an In-Depth Tour of the Great Wall at Badaling, Beijing

The Badaling Great Wall is not only a signature attraction of Beijing but also a magnificent testament to world cultural heritage and human history.

For foreign visitors seeking an immersive experience of Great Wall culture while avoiding the crowds, this in-depth travel guide will take you beyond conventional routes. Immerse yourself in the history, architecture, and natural landscapes of the Great Wall, embarking on a true cultural exploration journey.

Multiple transportation choices exist for reaching the Badaling Great Wall. Flexibly plan based on your itinerary:

• High-Speed Rail (Fastest): Take the high-speed train from Beijing North Station or Qinghe Station to Badaling Great Wall Station, approximately 20-30 minutes. After exiting the station, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the cable car entrance or hiking trailhead.
• Tourist Shuttle Buses: Direct buses from Qianmen or Deshengmen (e.g., Route 877, Busda Shuttle) offer an economical option for hassle-free travel. Some return routes pass by the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube, facilitating seamless itinerary connections.
• Self-Drive or S2 Line Train: Self-drive visitors can take the Beijing-Zhangjiakou Expressway directly to the Black Dragon Pool Parking Lot and transfer to a free shuttle bus. Alternatively, experience the scenic S2 Line train through Beijing’s suburbs to enjoy the views along the way.

Ticket Prices: Peak season (April-October) ¥40, off-season ¥35. Cable car or toboggan: 100 RMB one-way, 140 RMB round-trip.

Discounts: Free admission for visitors under 18 or over 60; half-price with a valid student ID. Book in advance through official channels to avoid on-site queues.

1. North Line Exploration (3-4 hours recommended)

The North Route features the most iconic sections of the Great Wall, ideal for visitors with good stamina seeking a comprehensive experience of its grandeur.

Recommended Route: Take the cable car to North Tower 7 → Hike to North Tower 8 (Heroes’ Slope, the highest point on the Wall) → Continue the challenge from North Tower 9 to North Tower 12 (less crowded, stunning views, steep walls, rich historical atmosphere) → Descend from North Tower 11.

Must-See Highlights:

• North Tower 4: Capture the iconic “Hero Stone” photo spot.
• North Tower 8: Overlook the panoramic Great Wall vista, embodying the spirit of “No hero climbs the Great Wall.”
• North Tower 12: Gaze upon Guanting Reservoir and admire the Great Wall’s majestic serpentine path along the mountain ridges.

2. South Line Cultural Stroll (Recommended 1.5-2 hours)

The South Route features gentler terrain, ideal for families, seniors, or visitors seeking a tranquil experience.

Recommended Route: Cable car to South Tower 4 → Walk to South Tower 7 → Return via the same path.

Highlight Recommendations:

• South Tower 1 to South Tower 4: Multiple “Hero Steles” along the way; South Tower 4 offers apricot blossoms in spring and is hailed as the “most beautiful arrow slit window.”
• South Tower 6: Surrounded by lush pine and cypress trees, perfect for quiet contemplation.

3. Night Tour of the Great Wall: A Dialogue of Light and History

Every Friday, Saturday, and holiday from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM, North Towers 1 to 4 open for night tours. The illuminated Great Wall takes on an air of mystery, complemented by period costume parades and performances—ideal for photography and culture enthusiasts (Night Tour ticket: ¥160).

Cultural Landmarks & Photo Spots

• Hero’s Stone (North Tower 4)
• Hero’s Slope (North Tower 8)
• Great Wall Panorama (North Tower 12, South Tower 4)
• Hero’s Stele (South Tower 1, South Tower 2, South Tower 4)
• Aerial Cable Car View (North Tower 6)

Seasonal Scenery: Vibrant spring/autumn foliage near North Tower 10; majestic winter snowscapes

Attire & Gear: Wear slip-resistant sneakers (some steps slope up to 45°). Bring a sun hat, a light jacket (mountain temperatures vary significantly between day and night), and a lightweight backpack. Pack ample water and snacks.

Avoid These Pitfalls:

1. The so-called “Hero Certificates” sold at the entrance are mostly unofficial. Official commemorative certificates are available at North Building 8.

2. Cable car lines are longest between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. Arrive early or take the afternoon ride.

3. Note return times: Last bus departs around 5:00 PM, last high-speed train around 7:30 PM. Start your descent at least one hour in advance.

In-Depth Experience Tips: If time permits, combine “cable car up, toboggan down” or “north-south route connection” to fully appreciate the diverse landscapes of different Great Wall sections.

This in-depth guide helps you bypass crowds, allowing you to trace history’s threads and listen to the Great Wall’s tales with greater ease and depth. Whether gazing into the distance from North Tower 8 or strolling along the serene southern walls, the Great Wall will engage you in a millennia-spanning dialogue in its own unique way.